Sexual Misconduct Charges Lead To Teacher's Dismissal

Former Watkins Middle Instructor Remains In Jail

Heath Miller, a music teacher accused of sexual misconduct with teenage students, has been fired from his job at Howell L. Watkins Middle School in Palm Beach Gardens.

Typically, teachers who have been arrested aren't fired unless they are convicted. However, Miller was not a tenured teacher, but worked on an annual contract, making it easier for the Palm Beach County School District to fire him.

"He has not been renewed," spokesman Nat Harrington said. "We're not required to give a reason, and we're not going to give a reason."

Miller, 34, has been in jail since April 21. He is charged with multiple counts of lewd and lascivious molestation, obstruction of justice and sexual battery.

Several teens said they had sex with Miller, and at least one has accused him of rape. Several teachers also reported having sex with him and said they were asked to participate in a cover-up by Miller, police said.

Principal Ann Wark listed some areas of concern on Miller's evaluation last year and decided not to give him tenure, even though he was qualified after teaching for three years.